All Parents Should Read: The Hidden Dangers of the Internet for Teenagers

Important Tips About Internet Safety forTeenagers

As you know, many teenagers today use the internet; they may play games, complete school assignments, or even access social media. While the internet has many wide and varied uses, it also carries risks that threaten our teenagers. In this section ofSelMagzwe intend to explain internet safety for teenagers and provide solutions.

Dangers of Internet Use for Teenagers

1. Social Media Theft
2. Exploitation of Teenagers
3. Encountering Sexual Issues
4. Online Marriages
5. Excessive Use and Internet Addiction
6. Exposure to Inappropriate Content
7. Economic or Legal Problems
8. Reduced Physical Activity
9. Addiction to Online Games

How Can We Ensure Internet Safety for Teenagers?

1. Manage your teenager’s online activities and internet usage history on their phone; this way, you can monitor the apps and websites they use.
2. As parents, use the internet safely yourself, always value privacy, and teach your child the same.
3. Set restrictions on your child’s computer or mobile device for internet access.
4. Use monitoring apps for your child to block unsuitable websites.
5. Limit internet access and establish specific times for usage; keep the internet connection or computer in a common area of the house, never in your teenager’s bedroom.
6. Teach your child what messages or content indicate they may be experiencing online exploitation.
7. Show them how to recognize internet pitfalls and how to deal with them.
8. If your child has been a victim of internet theft, teach them not to stop using the internet, but to aim for a healthier relationship with it going forward.
9. If your teenager uses your phone for internet, create a separate account for their internet connection.
10. Be aware of the signs of internet exploitation in teenagers and stay alert.
11. Explain the dangers of using the internet and the theft of personal information online.
12. Teach them not to share information such as passwords or social media credentials with anyone, even friends or closest ones.
13. Discuss with them before sharing any photos online and carefully review the pictures.
14. Teach them to maintain their account’s privacy and not to discuss it with strangers, and to avoid entering suspicious chat spaces.
15. Avoid downloading photos and content from unreliable sources.
16. Do not play games online with suspicious individuals.
17. Avoid using free Wi-Fi connections.
18. Remind your child to tell you immediately if someone treats them poorly or inappropriately online.